Invisible People of Belarus

PhotographerJadwiga Bronte

PrizeHonorable Mention

Entry Description

Invisible People of Belarus is a photobook accompanied by critical reflections and testimonies which documents the lives of disabled people and Chernobyl victims living in governmental institutions in Belarus. Internats function as something between an orphanage, asylum, and hospice. There are glaring deficiencies in Belarussian internats: very little physical or educational therapy is offered; there are few opportunities for recreational activities; and the right to a private life is not respected, with romantic relationships between residents prohibited. Integration within the local community is virtually non-existent, with the most physically able residents only leaving occasionally when international volunteers organise a trip. Their location makes it difficult for the families that would like to stay in touch with their children to visit. Some of the internats are located in very rural areas, hours away by car and with almost no public transport links. All internats are either fenced off or walled.

About Photographer

Jadwiga Brontē (B.1986) Is A Polish Documentary Photographer And Videographer, Covering Social And Cultural Issues Around The World.